Be merry: Christmas reflection 2010

Sister Hannah Corbin shows her merry spirit in a Christmas tree sweater, while standing next to the Christmas tree.

I have a fondness for the word “merry.” For years, my Christmas card complementary closing has been “Be merry!” What am I encouraging with this sign-off? “Merry” is defined as: full of fun and laughter; lively and cheerful; mirthful; conducive to fun and laughter.

Remembering the definition caused me to wonder just how many merry people I know – not the seasonally merry but the day-in-and-day out merry.

I found I could name quite a few – among our sisters, staff, my family and friends. The persons I remembered have an air of lightness about them – of not taking themselves too seriously – of enjoying being in the presence of another or many others – of relishing beauty wherever found – of drawing others into their joy and positive energy.

None of the merry persons I remembered are superficial, silly or unrealistic. No, they are people who know life’s ups and downs, its sadness and joy. My merry persons respond to others with empathy and compassion – always appropriate to the life event happening.

These people, gifts of merriness in my life, refresh and encourage me. They are like water to a parched traveler, like an encouraging smile at a tense time.

If you have some quiet moments these hectic Christmas days, you may want to call to mind and heart those who gift you with merriness, with fun, laughter, mirth and cheer. These are valuable gifts and not to be taken for granted or under-appreciated!

Thank you, Incarnate Mystery, for the merry among us! Help each of us be so secure in your love for us that we too will be merry!

All the Sisters of Providence join me in promising our prayer for you and all you love during these days of Christmas and the celebration of the New Year.

Be Merry!

Sister Denise Wilkinson, SP
General Superior
Sisters of Providence
St. Mary-of-the-Woods, Indiana